Ensuring the most vulnerable in our society have the support necessary to live with dignity and as independently as possible in their home is vital. The Supporting People Programme makes a considerable contribution to ensuring this takes place.

The Supporting People Programme has been highly successful in Northern Ireland. It offers housing related support to over 25,000 vulnerable people (including young people leaving care, learning disabled adults, frail elderly and those with dementia) at any given time. It is model which is well regarded in other areas of the UK proving both effective and efficient.

The current key issues for concern:

The possible transfer of the Supporting People budget to the Department of Health, Social Services & Public Safety (DHSSPS)